Loudoun supervisors to discuss possible data center moratorium Tuesday
Loudoun County, Virginia supervisors are scheduled to discuss a potential moratorium on new data center development. The move follows similar actions in Maryland counties and addresses concerns about fiscal responsibility, rising electricity costs, and grid demand. The county attorney's office reviewed the proposal, with staff recommending no action.
The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors is set to discuss a possible moratorium on new data center development, mirroring actions taken by some Maryland counties. Northern Virginia has experienced a significant AI-driven data center boom, but concerns are mounting in Loudoun County.
Board Supervisor Juli Briskman, who has consistently voted against data centers since 2020, questions the county's fiscal reliance on data centers, which currently contribute 50% of Loudoun County's revenue. Additionally, residents have voiced growing concerns regarding rising electrical costs attributed to the increased demand data centers place on power grids.
The supervisors will consider a review by the county attorney on pausing new data center development, though staff recommendations suggest taking no action. The meeting for this discussion is scheduled for Tuesday at 4 p.m. Former President Trump has also weighed in on the broader topic of AI and data centers, dismissing related warnings as an "AI Hoax."